Ottawa throws support behind 2026 World Cup bid

TORONTO — The federal government officially threw its support behind the North American bid for the 2026 World Cup on Tuesday, with a promise of up to $5 million in immediate help should the unified bid succeed.

Canada, Mexico and the U.S. are up against Morocco to host the men’s soccer showcase. Their bid books go to FIFA at the end of the week with a decision to be made June 13.

Tuesday’s announcement at BMO Field was the latest in a string of events designed to show the bid is on track. Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal and Edmonton, identified as potential Canadian cities, have already endorsed the bid.

“It’s good for our athletes, it’s good for our communities, our economy, our reputation as an international sport leader,” said Kirsty Duncan, minister of science and minister of sport and persons with disabilities. “We are behind this bid.”

She said Ottawa will commit up to $5 million should the bid win. Peter Montopoli, general secretary of the Canadian Soccer Association, said that money would be used during the transition period, from when the bid is awarded to when FIFA essentially takes over running the tournament.

Ottawa will also help with essential services such as security and border control, as it did during the Women’s World Cup in 2015.

The unified bid plan calls for 10 matches in each of Canada and Mexico with 60 of the 80 games to be held in the U.S.